If you come to Munich and do not know how to spend your leisure time, pay attention to the world famous zoo. More than 740 species of animals live in it, and the territory occupies 39 hectares. The Hellabrunn Zoo in Munich is located near the Isar River. It is called the largest zoo in Europe. The number of visitors reaches 1.3 million people a year.
The large territory of the zoo allows you to freely move around it and not feel discomfort due to the large crowds. Read more about where the zoo in Munich is located and what it is known for.
History
The zoo celebrated its centenary in 2011. He became the first among similar places where animal living conditions are most closely adapted to the natural habitat. During the First World War, the zoo in Munich suffered from bombing raids. Most of the territory was destroyed. In 1922 it was closed for reconstruction, which lasted as long as six years.
In 1928, Karl Hagenbeck developed a project for a new design of the zoo, which was based on the zoogeographic principle. The idea is that animals live in enclosures in an area as close as possible to them in nature, and not in cramped cages.
In 1929, Hellabrunn received international status, which allowed him to acquire more animals from different continents. Bison and horses began to be bred at the zoo, in 1936 a large number of fish and Ara parrots joined the inhabitants.
Territory
The zoo is divided into six zones that mimic the native animal continents: Africa, America, Europe, Asia, Antarctica and Australia. The inhabitants of the zoo in Munich feel at home, as there are no barriers and fences. Visitors can observe the animal in its familiar environment without violating its borders.
Also in the reserve there are small streams in which fish swim. On the banks you can see the otter. Each zone is distinguished by its unique climate, and visitors can experience the change of continents.
The territory of the reserve resembles a huge amusement park. There are cafes, shops, playgrounds for children and attractions. Every day, zoo workers hold a bird show in which hawks and eagles perform aerial stunts. Younger visitors will love the adventure playground. The construction is a small town made of metal and wood. Here the child will be able to show his dexterity and have fun.
The inhabitants
In the part reserved for America, one can observe a large number of animal species, since the climate of this continent is diverse. Here you will find alpaca, llama, maned wolf, giant anteater, tamarin, capybara and even Humboldt penguins.
The zone of Africa will please a large number of mountain animals, predators and huge elephants. On the territory you will find herds of Elan antelopes, large kudu, gazelles, pygmy goats and nial. You can also watch different species of monkeys, from chimpanzees to baboons. Meet here zebras, giraffes, turtles, red pigs and, of course, the king of animals - the lion.
In the zone of Europe you will find a lynx, brown bear, wolf, tarpans, barn owl, bison and many other animals that live in dense forests and mountain ranges.
In Asia, there are manul, red panda, Indian rhinoceros, garn, Siberian tiger, Sumatran orangutan, camel, golden jackal and others.
Black swan, kangaroo, emu, wallaby live in the zone of Australia.
For animals of the polar world, the zoo provides an area with low air temperature and cold climate. Penguins, polar bears, fur seals and Arctic foxes feel at home.
Also, the zoo in Munich took care of the largest inhabitants of the reserve. The huge 18-meter building became the first building in the zoo. Giants can walk around and not feel discomfort. Next to the elephants in a separate room there are another giants - reticulated giraffes, as well as rodent pigs.
The zoo has a Dracula villa, which is home to a large family of bats. Despite the formidable name, the inhabitants are harmless. The reserve is distinguished by the largest aviary for birds. Feathered birds can be among other animals and coexist perfectly with them, as happens in the wild. The most memorable bird habitats are Pelican Lake and the Kingdom of Pink Flamingos.
Special shelters have been created on the territory so that animals feel safe during the breeding period and the postpartum stage. In the zoo there are not only animals, but also insects, since without them part of the ecological system will be disturbed. The reserve's security system provides protection not only for animals, but also for people who might be scared by a running beast. Some animals are allowed to feed for a nominal fee.
Working hours
The zoo is open daily. There are summer and winter visiting schedules. Opening hours of the zoo in Munich in the summer (April-October) - from 9:00 to 18:00. In winter (November-March) - from 9:00 to 17:00.
Ticket price
Visitors to the zoo can receive a one-time ticket or purchase a subscription for a year. Also for groups of 20 people and parents with a child discounts are provided.
Prices of single tickets:
- adults - 15 euros;
- children 4-14 years old - 6 euros;
- adult + 1 child and more - 19 euros;
- two parents with one or more children - 33 euros.
Prices for annual subscription:
- adults - 49 euros;
- child - 25 euros;
- students, elderly people, people with disabilities - 42 euros;
- families - 49-98 euros (depending on the card).
Ticket price for groups of 20 people and more:
- adults - 11 euros;
- children - 6 euros.
For children under 4 years of age and disabled people of group 1, admission is free.
How to get to the zoo in Munich
You can get to the desired place by metro at the Thalkirchen station. Next, you will need to go through the Isar River and follow the signs. So you can easily get to the place. Alternatively, take bus number 52 to the Zoo stop. If you prefer a car to public transport, you should take into account that parking is paid in the amount of 3.5 euros per hour. Munich Zoo Address: Animal park street, 30.
Visitors reviews
The zoo in Munich is popular with tourists. According to their observations, it is better to visit the reserve in the summer, as animals can hide in their burrows or caves due to bad weather. In summer, the chances of enjoying a visit to the place are greatly increased. Many visitors note a big plus in the vast territory of the reserve. There is no large crowd of people, you can safely walk around the places of interest.
Children are delighted after visiting the zoo. They always have something to do, because there are several playgrounds on the territory. Tired parents can relax in cozy cafes, here you can restore strength and resume a tour of the zoo. Many visitors returned to the reserve again and again, because at one time they did not have time to get acquainted with all the inhabitants.